Historical Marker

Coventry Civil War Monument

Historical marker location:
Coventry, Vermont
( Memorial is at the intersection of Main Street and Covered Bridge Road, in the median on Main Street.)
Marker installed: 1912

  A brief timeline of the Civil War

  • April 12, 1861: The Civil War begins with the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter, located in South Carolina's Charleston Harbor.

  • April 15, 1861: President Abraham Lincoln issues a call for 75,000 volunteers to serve in the Union Army to suppress the rebellion.

  • May 24, 1861: The first major land battle, known as the First Battle of Bull Run (or First Battle of Manassas), takes place in Virginia. It ends in Confederate victory.

  • September 17, 1862: The Battle of Antietam in Maryland becomes the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, with heavy casualties on both sides. The Union forces, commanded by General George McClellan, manage to halt Confederate General Robert E. Lee's advance into Union territory.

  • January 1, 1863: President Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring that all slaves in Confederate-held territories are to be set free. However, the proclamation does not immediately free all slaves in the United States.

  • July 1-3, 1863: The Battle of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania takes place, resulting in a significant Union victory and inflicting heavy casualties on Confederate forces. It marks a turning point in the war.

  • November 19, 1863: President Lincoln delivers the Gettysburg Address, emphasizing the principles of liberty, equality, and the preservation of the Union.

  • April 9, 1865: General Robert E. Lee surrenders to Union General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia, effectively ending the Civil War.

  • April 14, 1865: President Lincoln is assassinated by John Wilkes Booth while attending a play at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C.

  • May 10, 1865: Confederate President Jefferson Davis is captured, signaling the collapse of the Confederate government.

  • December 6, 1865: The Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution is ratified, officially abolishing slavery throughout the country.

While this timeline provides an overview of key events, it is important to note that the Civil War spanned over four years, from 1861 to 1865, and encompassed numerous battles, campaigns, and political developments that shaped the course of American history.

Vermont was the birthplace of the snowmobile: In 1922, a Vermont man named Carl Eliason built the first snowmobile, which he called a "snow machine." The snow machine was made from a Model T Ford engine and had a track instead of wheels. The invention was later refined and became the basis for the modern snowmobile.
Vermont random facts
Orleans County, Vermont, has a rich history dating back to the native Abenaki people who were the original inhabitants of the region. In the 18th century, European settlers began to arrive, attracted by the fertile land and abundant natural resources. The area was officially established as Orleans County in 1792, named after the French city of Orléans, to honor France's support during the American Revolution.

The county played a significant role in the logging industry during the 19th century, with its vast forests providing valuable timber for construction and trade. The arrival of the railroad in the mid-1800s further stimulated economic growth, as it facilitated the transportation of lumber and other goods. Orleans County also became known for its agricultural productivity, with many farmers cultivating crops such as potatoes, dairy products, and maple syrup.

During the early 20th century, the county saw a decline in logging due to the depletion of natural resources and competition from other regions. However, it experienced a revival in the tourism industry, capitalizing on its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Lake Willoughby, one of Vermont's most beloved lakes, and its surrounding natural attractions, including hiking trails, fishing spots, and winter activities, have attracted visitors from across the country.

Today, Orleans County continues to be deeply rooted in its agricultural heritage while embracing the economic opportunities brought by tourism and outdoor activities. With its charming small towns, beautiful landscapes, and close-knit communities, the county attracts both residents and visitors who appreciate its historical significance, natural beauty, and rural way of life.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Orleans County, Vermont.

  • 1761 - Orleans County is granted by Benning Wentworth, Governor of New Hampshire, to settlers from Connecticut and Massachusetts.
  • 1791 - Vermont becomes the 14th state.
  • 1792 - Orleans County is officially recognized as a county within Vermont.
  • 1799 - Barton is settled by Ebenezer and Jeduthan Barton.
  • 1810 - Craftsbury is incorporated as a town.
  • 1818 - Troy is established as a separate town from Newport.
  • 1840 - Irasburg is incorporated as a town.
  • 1860 - Coventry is incorporated as a town.
  • 1866 - The Vermont legislature authorizes the formation of a town from parts of Charleston, Coventry, and Irasburg, giving birth to Orleans.
  • 1881 - The National Standard Paper Mill is established in Island Pond.
  • 1913 - Lowell is incorporated as a town.
  • 1921 - Jay is incorporated as a town.
  • 1959 - The Interstate 91 highway is completed, connecting the county to the rest of Vermont and New Hampshire.
  • 1982 - The Jay Peak Resort opens, becoming a popular tourist destination.
  • 1995 - The Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail is established, offering recreational opportunities to residents and visitors.